Scotland has decided to take a concrete step in favor of urban biodiversity. Edinburgh Parliament has passed a law that will make the installation of so-called Swift bricks compulsory in all new residential buildings, where technically possible. These are hollow wall blocks, integrated directly into walls, designed to provide safe nesting spaces for birds living in cities.
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Protect swifts, an iconic species in decline
The measure was created with a specific objective: to protect swifts, one of the most iconic species of the European urban landscape, now included in the red conservation list. According to official data, the population of these birds has declined by about 60% since 1995, mainly due to the loss of suitable nesting sites. The new buildings, increasingly isolated and devoid of natural cavities, have in fact eliminated the spaces traditionally used for nests.
A benefit extended to other species
Swift bricks are not just meant for swifts. Their presence could also benefit other urban species such as sparrows, starlings and swallows, helping to recreate small ecosystems within the city fabric. The advantage, the experts point out, is twofold: on the one hand wildlife is supported, on the other it promotes building design that is more attentive to the environment, without negative impacts on the safety or aesthetics of the buildings.
Reduced costs and integration into the design
One of the aspects that convinced legislators is the simplicity of the solution. Bricks have a low cost, do not alter the load-bearing structure of the buildings and are installed directly during the construction phase. This allows nature protection to be integrated right from the origin of the project, avoiding more complex or expensive subsequent interventions.
Comparison with the rest of the UK
The Scottish choice marks a clear difference compared to the rest of the United Kingdom. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, similar measures remain largely non-binding recommendations, left to the discretion of developers or local authorities. Precisely this lack of obligations has been criticized several times by environmental associations, who see the Scottish law as a possible model to export.
Times and next steps
The legislation will come into force after a 12-month consultation period, necessary to define clear and uniform technical standards. A step considered fundamental to guarantee effective and coherent applications. For many observers, Edinburgh’s decision represents a strong signal: coexistence between city and nature is not only desirable, but can become a rule.
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